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With a pleasant tightening and firming effect, our testers could feel this one getting to work immediately. The creamy texture felt hydrating but never greasy – ideal for sensitive skin – but it took a little while to fully absorb. The question, really, is what should you be using retinol with. Hydrating ingredients like glycerin, peptides, ceramides, when sandwiched with your retinol, all help to support the integrity of the skin.” Vitamin C has been found to promote collagen production, plump fine lines, firm the skin tissue, brighten skin and give an overall youthful texture,” says Bolder. “As if that wasn’t enough of a reason to use it in your skincare routine, this super-effective ingredient carries powerful antioxidant properties to help ward off free radical damage, which can push our skin tissue into a premature ageing process.” Side note: this product contains retinol which, since it's so effective, should only be used in one product on any given day. Apply on alternate evenings and no more than four times per week. Why we love it: This potent vitamin C serum has a formulation that's designed to penetrate your skin deeply to minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while also shielding it against pollution and other environmental aggressors. Plus, it's cruelty-free, vegan-friendly and free from artificial fragrances.
It really does depend on the version of retinol you are using, as there are many variants with different strengths. Always defer to the practitioner that’s providing it to you. If in doubt, a pea-sized amount is just fine. It is always better to use a smaller amount than larger – less is always more with retinol.” What percentage of retinol serum is best? Great for those after a gentle but effective retinol that can rebalance stressed skin, this solution boasts probiotics for a healthy microbiome as well as adaptogenic mushroom extract. Working in tandem to counter the effects of free radicals and skin irritation, it protects the moisture barrier from damage while resurfacing existing dark spots with the help of AHA. What’s more, the retinol in this formula comes in clever time-released liposomes, which penetrate the skin so the ingredient can get to work deep in the dermis where it’s needed most. Formulated with 3 Essential Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid, the formula helps to protect the natural skin barrier and retain moisture on the skin. Also referred to as ascorbic acid, vitamin C isn’t naturally produced or stored in your body but is found in food such as lemons, oranges and red peppers. This powerful antioxidant works to protect cells from damage and keep your skin and bones healthy.If you’re finding retinol too harsh, there is a gentler alternative: bakuchiol, a plant-based super ingredient. Powered by bakuchiol, this moisturiser works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and smooths uneven skin, without causing irritation. Meanwhile added squalane, glycerin and sacha inchi oil provide hydration and nourishment. The Ordinary is renowned for bringing us premium ingredients at affordable prices, and this product is no exception. High potency, minimal irritation, low price – what’s not to love? Some products, such as retinol and vitamin C in higher concentrations, can cause mild irritation at first and should be used every other day to begin with until your skin builds up tolerance. If your skincare routine includes both vitamin C and retinol, it’s best to use vitamin C products in the morning and retinol products at night – retinol helps cells rebuild overnight but can cause sun sensitivity, whereas vitamin C helps protect from environmental damage so is a good choice for daytime. Salicylic acid can also cause mild irritation so is best used at night; hyaluronic acid can be used at any time of day What should I use after a serum?
If you’re after a brilliant retinoid product, look no further than Medik8, a brand that is known for its stellar formulas. Beginners should start with Crystal Retinal 1, which contains 0.01 per cent stabilised retinal, an alternative to retinol which has been shown to deliver results up to 11 times faster.Why we love it: Looking for a way to deal with skin dullness and hyperpigmentation? Say no more. This lightweight vitamin C serum contains 10% ethyl ascorbic acid, which helps even out your skin tone while also strengthening and protecting it against free radical damage. It even contains helpful, soothing ingredients such as liquorice extract, tazman pepper and grape seed oil. Note, vitamin C can cause a light tingling upon application. It’s also recommended you use sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection in your morning routine. How we test Why we love it: An absolute dream to apply, Sunday Riley's C.E.O Rapid Flash Brightening Serum is super-charged with vitamin C to target signs of ageing, dullness, dehydration, fine lines and hyperpigmentation. We also found it to reduce the size of pores over time, so if large pores around your T-zone is something you struggle with, this could be the vitamin C serum for you. Natural doesn’t necessarily mean ineffective, and this gentle vegan, natural and 91% organic serum pays tribute to that. It got to work fast, with the majority of testers saying their skin looked brighter immediately.
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